Recording a variety of relevant evidence is key to protecting your right to compensation after a car accident. When you work with our Santa Monica, CA car accident lawyer at Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we can help you understand which types of evidence you’ll need to demonstrate your losses to the insurance company or in court.
Personal Notes
Memory tends to fade over time, so having a timely written account can help you and your legal team clarify the facts later. Jot down your own recollection of the events as soon as you can after the accident. Include details such as the time, location, and what led up to the crash. Write down details about the weather, visibility, and road conditions at the time of the crash. For instance, rain, potholes, or poorly marked lanes may have played a role. These observations can provide additional context when presenting your case.
Police Reports
Police reports carry significant weight when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court. Immediately after the accident occurs, contact law enforcement to report the accident and obtain a copy of the police report. This document often includes details about the scene, the officer’s observations, and preliminary determinations about fault.
Information Of The People Involved
Accurate contact records prevent communication gaps and make it easier to follow up later. Exchange names, phone numbers, and insurance details with all parties involved. Collect the driver’s license numbers and vehicle license plates as well. If there are passengers, you should take note of their contact information as well.
Photographs Of The Accident Scene
Photographs can be extremely useful for insurance claims or legal proceedings. Take clear photos of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, their positions, and any visible damage. It’s also a smart idea to photograph things like skid marks, debris, traffic signals, or road conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
If you’re unable to take photos due to an injury or damaged phone, you may be able to ask someone else at the scene such as a passenger or bystander to take pictures for you. If that’s not possible, try to return to the location as soon as you can to capture any remaining evidence before it gets completely cleaned up. Our Santa Monica car accident lawyer can also help with this and any other evidence-gathering efforts.
Witness Statements
Witnesses can offer an unbiased account of what happened which could support your version of events. If bystanders or other drivers witnessed the accident and pulled over after it happened, that usually means they’ll be willing to help. Be sure to ask for their contact details and a brief statement about what they saw. Their statements may prove to be valuable if there’s a dispute about liability later on during your case.
Medical Records
If you were injured, you need to seek medical attention right away and retain all related documentation. Medical records, treatment plans, and bills will help insurance adjusters and the civil court understand the extent of your injuries and the impact they have on your life. Plus, if you end up needing long-term care, this evidence will be critical for calculating your fair and full compensation.
Vehicle Repair Estimates
These records help show the financial impact of the accident. You can get repair estimates from your mechanics or the body shop you took your vehicle to after the accident to document the cost of fixing your car. We recommend keeping receipts for any repairs or temporary transportation costs in a folder with all other evidence from the incident.
Traffic Or Security Camera Footage
Video footage can clarify how the crash occurred and help establish fault. Check if nearby businesses or traffic cameras captured the accident. Act quickly, as many systems overwrite their recordings after a short period. Your attorney can help out with this as well during their investigation.
We’re Here to Help
If you’ve been in a car accident and aren’t sure where to start, Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm is here to assist. Our firm understands the challenges auto accident victims face and is ready to help you collect the evidence you need to build a strong case. Contact us today to speak with our experienced Santa Monica car accident lawyer and learn how we can support your quest for maximized compensation.